(This article is a press release from the Baxter County Library.)
Mountain Home, AR. – As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Baxter County Library is marking the occasion with a series of exhibits, programs, and activities designed to explore America’s history, ideals, and evolving identity.
Kicking off the celebration is Declaration 1776: The Big Bang of Modern Democracy, on display from February 9 through March 6. This traveling exhibit examines the Declaration of Independence as a revolutionary document that reshaped political thought both in the United States and around the world. Using primary source documents, the exhibit traces how the ideals articulated in 1776 inspired movements for equality and self-determination.
Community members of all ages are also invited to participate in the 250 Art Contest, What Does America Mean to You? Artwork may be submitted through February 28, with categories open to youth in grades K–12 and adults. Participants may submit one original piece of 2D or 3D artwork, which will be judged by age group, including a separate category for professional artists. All entries must be original and not AI-generated. Winners from each category will receive American-themed gift baskets, and select artwork will be displayed in the Library during March. Contest rules and entry details are available at the Circulation, Children’s, and Teen Desks.
Looking ahead to March, the Library will host Arkansas Arkansaw: A State and Its Reputation, an exhibit open from March 2 through April 2. This exhibit explores the myths, stereotypes, and stories that have shaped perceptions of Arkansas, from hillbillies and moonshiners to iconic tales like The Arkansas Traveler, and examines how those portrayals influenced local, national, and global views of the state.
Readers can also take part in the Read 250 Reading Challenge, running from January 1 through May 1. Open to all ages, the challenge encourages participants to read 25 books connected to America’s history, culture, and experiences. Those who complete the challenge will receive a small prize and be entered into an Americana-themed grand prize drawing. Paper reading logs are available at the Library, and participants may also track their progress through the Beanstack app.
On Saturday, February 14 at 1:30pm, the Library will host Civics Made Easy with PBS, a viewing and discussion program designed to break down key civic concepts in an accessible way. Topics include voting rights, how elections work, the two-party system, political donations, and the Electoral College. The program is designed to encourage respectful discussion in a welcoming environment.
The Library’s America 250 programming will continue into March with additional events, including America Puzzlepalooza, the Snap, Crackle, & Pop Spring Break Staycation, and more activities, along with a third exhibit still to be announced.
For full details on exhibits, programs, and upcoming events related to America’s 250th anniversary, visit www.BaxLib.org or stop by the Baxter County Library.
